In 2024, the earliest iteration of Disney's Mickey Mouse will enter the public domain. Mickey Mouse first appeared in 1928 in the animated short film "Steamboat Willie" — the first animation film to use synchronized sound. In the US, copyright for original works of authorship last until the author's death plus 70 years. But for works created anonymously, pseudo-anonymously or by an employee as part of their job, it lasts 95 years. Works published before 1978, like Mickey Mouse, only have a copyright of 95 years from the date of publication.In 2024, the earliest iteration of Disney's Mickey Mouse will enter the public domain. Mickey Mouse first appeared in 1928 in the animated short film "Steamboat Willie" — the first animation film to use synchronized sound. In the US, copyright for original works of authorship last until the author's death plus 70 years. But for works created anonymously, pseudo-anonymously or by an employee as part of their job, it lasts 95 years. Works published before 1978, like Mickey Mouse, only have a copyright of 95 years from the date of publication.